Weather conditions in California can change the safety of a particular road or highway very quickly. Drivers should be especially aware in dense fog or other extreme weather conditions that reduce visibility. Motorists who must travel in fog should drive at lower speeds because they will not be able to see the road or other vehicles as well. Reducing speed gives the driver more time to react to objects and other vehicles on the road.

Additionally, drivers should make efforts to minimize distractions by silencing any smartphones and turning the car radio down. It can be a good idea to put cell phones in the glove box where it will not draw attention. Driving with the window down can be helpful in a thick fog because it allows the driver to hear other cars, including emergency vehicles, that they might not be able to see otherwise. Reflectors on the side of the road can be used as guides for drivers to stay on the road if they cannot see well.

The safest action to take in foggy driving conditions is to pull off the road and wait until visibility improves. Windshield wipers and defrost settings on heaters can be used to reduce glare and remove some of the moisture from the windshield. Visibility in fog is better with low beams than high beams. Fog lights are ideal if the vehicle is equipped with them.

Low visibility can lead to car accidents, which can result in injuries to drivers or passengers. An injured party may have a claim for compensation for medical bills, lost wages or other damages. A California attorney who practices personal injury law might be able to help a victim by negotiating a settlement with the at-fault party. Legal counsel could also draft and file a complaint for relief if the case cannot be settled before that point.